Today, almost a third of transgender people are parents. This means it’s important for trans individuals to have access to resources that can assist them in their pregnancy and parenting journey. After all, the process of becoming a parent is difficult no matter your gender identity or sexual orientation. It can be even more challenging if you’re trans and pregnant.
However, if you’re reading this article, then there must be a light at the end of the tunnel! For many pregnant transgender individuals, finding supportive healthcare providers who understand their needs and concerns can be challenging. Moreover, for those who plan on raising their child as an only parent or with custody from a partner or spouse, identifying potential childcare options might be even more troublesome.
If you’re reading this article as an expecting trans individual or know someone who is, continue reading for our tips on how to find qualified gender-affirming healthcare and other useful information about being trans and pregnant.
Thirty-five years after the first transgender person testified before Congress, it can still be difficult for trans people to find quality healthcare.
Many doctors lack training in gender-affirming care and are afraid of interacting with trans patients due to a constant stream of negative media attention. These factors often result in trans individuals having difficulty accessing gender-affirming care and being forced to choose between potentially inadequate general healthcare or no healthcare at all. But there is hope.
This article will explore the difficulties that many trans people face when looking for qualified, professional, and affordable healthcare. We’ll also go over some tips on how to find the right doctor and insurance plan while staying within your budget.
What does gender-affirming healthcare look like?
In general, gender-affirming healthcare is healthcare that is inclusive, respectful, and sensitive to an individual’s gender identity and expression. While pregnant transgender individuals should be able to access appropriate healthcare to ensure their health and the health of their fetus, it’s important that they feel safe and comfortable during their visit.
For transgender individuals who are pregnant, it’s important to find a healthcare provider who understands your experience and needs. If possible, it’s ideal to find a provider who specializes in transgender pregnancies. This can help ensure that your healthcare needs are met and you’re receiving the care you need. While some healthcare providers might not understand or care about your needs as an expecting trans individual, it’s important to remain patient and persistent in your search for the right providers. If the first few healthcare providers don’t work out, don’t give up. It can take time to find the right individual.
Hire a qualified attorney to assist you with the process
If you plan on raising your child as an only parent or with custody from a partner or spouse, it’s important to hire a qualified attorney to assist you with the process. You don’t want to be caught off guard if the other parent or partner contests your right to custody. Moreover, if you’re concerned about discrimination, then it’s important to have a custody agreement in place. This can prevent the other parent from denying you custody based on your gender identity or trans status.
Online Resources for Trans Pregnancy Care
Transparent – This website provides pregnancy and parenting resources for trans individuals, including information about prenatal care, delivery, and breastfeeding.
Trans Health – This website was developed by the University of California, San Francisco to provide information to individuals who are interested in pursuing pregnancy or are currently pregnant.
It’s also important to note that many online resources are available for transgender individuals who are planning on pursuing a pregnancy in the future. Many individuals use these resources to stay informed on the latest information, developments, and tips related to the process of becoming pregnant.
Counseling and Psychological Services
Hormones, birth control, and pregnancies can all cause stress, anxiety, and depression to some degree. However, for many transgender individuals, these feelings are more severe. Moreover, many healthcare providers don’t know how to best assist transgender people in managing their mental health.
Therefore, it’s important to find a counselor who can help you navigate your pregnancy and mental health. If you don’t know where to start, most cities have organizations that provide low-cost or free mental health services. Moreover, many women’s shelters, children’s hospitals, and universities with psychology programs offer free or low-cost mental health services.
Health Care Options During Pregnancy
During your pregnancy, it’s important to find a health care provider who understands the unique needs of transgender individuals. While you should expect your provider to administer routine tests, and screenings, and provide general health care, you should also ask them how they will assist you during your pregnancy.
Some things you might want to inquire about include:
What steps do you take to ensure my privacy during appointments?
How do you address my partner or spouse?
What steps do you take to ensure the privacy of my medical records?
Do you provide support for my partner or spouse?
How do you address me in front of my doctor?
How do you address me in front of my partner or spouse?
What steps do you take to ensure that your child has privacy?
Childbirth Preparation Classes
Many expecting trans individuals feel anxious about childbirth. Moreover, many individuals feel as though they are not prepared for the birthing process. While prenatal care can prepare you for the medical aspects of childbirth, it doesn’t prepare you for the emotional and psychological aspects of the process.
Therefore, it’s important to find childbirth preparation classes that are inclusive and sensitive to the needs of expecting transgender individuals. Many expecting trans individuals find support in online forums where they discuss the best childbirth classes, doulas, and midwives in their area.
Prenatal care for transgender individuals
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment for transgender individuals. While it can assist in reducing one’s level of stress, anxiety, and depression associated with gender dysphoria, it can also negatively affect a fetus. Moreover, not all HRT is safe for pregnant individuals. While it is important to speak with your doctor about the specific dosages that are safe for your situation, it’s also important to find a doctor who understands your needs as a pregnant transgender individual. Unfortunately, many general OBGYNs have a limited understanding of the needs of the transgender community.
While being pregnant as a transgender individual can be challenging, it’s important to focus on your health and wellbeing. Moreover, it’s important to remember that you deserve to have a positive pregnancy experience. It’s important to find healthcare providers who are sensitive to your needs and supportive of your journey.
